Pritchard at the double

John Pritchard scored two spectacular goals for Latics under-18's who won 3-0 at Port Vale in the Football League Youth Alliance's North West Conference.

It was an excellent performance from Latics' youngsters in difficult conditions.

And though goalscorers Pritchard (pictured) and Jordan Bove received the acclaim, coach Mick Priest praised the back four of Callum Etches, Tomos Clarke, Eddie Fulwood and Pritchard for their determination in keeping a clean sheet away from home.

Latics lost Jordache Walters through injury midway through the opening half and his replacement Ben Grant won a penalty with his first touch which Bove converted.

Goalkeeper Joel Coleman made a brilliant save on the stroke of half time to keep out a free kick as Latics maintained their 1-0 advantage.

Latics doubled their advantage on the hour when Pritchard swung in a free kick from the right which eluded everybody as it crept into the far corner of the net.

The third goal came when Latics pressurised the Vale back four into a poor clearance.

Prichard picked up the ball and, after two touches, walloped an unstoppable shot from 30 yards into the top corner, a fitting finish to a great team performance in the Potteries.